Preventing Glass Misting in Indoor Showcases with Burial Remains at Al Ain, UAE

A year-long environmental monitoring study at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cultural Sites of Al Ain, UAE, revealed that indoor glass misting—caused by temperature and humidity contrasts between showcases housing archaeological remains and the air-conditioned room environment—poses a significant risk to artifact visibility and preservation. The research identified key mitigation strategies to prevent condensation, including reducing room cooling, raising glass pane temperatures using electrical devices, and increasing air exchanges between showcases and rooms. These findings provide actionable solutions to protect burial remains while maintaining optimal viewing conditions in hot desert climates.

Camuffo, D., Giorio, R., della Valle, A., Rizzi, F., Barucco, P., Suma, M., Ahmed, J., Chabbi, A., Shaker, O., & Sheehan, P. (2024). Preventing Glass Misting in Indoor Showcases with Burial Remains at Al Ain, UAE. Heritage, 7(2), 585–607. https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage7020028